K-pop fans around the world are in shock as news of the sudden death of Moonbin, a rising star in the industry, has emerged. The 25-year-old singer, dancer and actor was found dead in his apartment in Seoul, South Korea, on Tuesday, with the cause of death yet to be confirmed. Moonbin was a member of the popular boy band Astro, and was known for his energetic performances and charming personality. His untimely passing has sent a wave of grief across the K-pop community, as fans and colleagues alike mourn the loss of a young talent.
On April 20th, 2023, it was reported that South Korean K-pop star Moonbin had passed away at the age of 25. According to South Korean media, he was found unresponsive in his apartment in Seoul by his manager. Police stated that while it appeared that Moonbin had taken his own life, an autopsy was still being reviewed to determine the exact cause of death. Moonbin, who had worked as an actor and model before joining the popular boy band Astro in 2016, had been performing with another Astro member, Sanha, in a duo since 2020. They had been in the middle of a world tour, with their last performance on April 8th in Bangkok.
Moonbin’s label, Fantiago, released a statement saying that he had “unexpectedly left our world and became a star in the sky.” The statement also revealed that all of Astro’s members were returning to Seoul on Thursday to gather for Moonbin’s wake. The label asked people to “refrain from speculative and malicious reports” so that Moonbin’s family could pay their respects in peace. Moonbin’s sister, Moon Sua, is also a K-pop singer, part of the girl group Billlie. The siblings had previously spoken in public interviews about their dependence on each other.
Moonbin had joined the Fantagio’s trainee programme as a child before eventually joining Astro. The group was originally six performers, but one member left in February 2023. Astro fans, known as “Arohas,” have been mourning Moonbin’s death. Known as an all-round performer, he had been seen as the boy band’s most celebrated dancer. Pictures on social media showed fans on Wednesday night laying flowers and post-it notes at impromptu street memorials in South Korea. Fans also strung up purple and silver balloons – colors that had featured prominently at the singer’s last performance in Thailand.
Unfortunately, South Korea has the highest rate of youth suicide among developed countries. While its overall suicide rate is falling, deaths of those in their 20s are rising. The K-pop industry alone has seen four suicides in recent years. At a recent concert, while on the “Diffusion” tour with Sanha to promote the duo’s latest EP record, Moonbin told fans that he had been going through a difficult time. “I want to confess one thing, I’m actually feeling really bad. There might have been a lot of signs from which people could notice since the concert started, so I’m also very sorry to you guys.” Moonbin said during a live broadcast over social media. “I’m working out and trying to pick up things that I’ve left little by little. I chose this job so I need to be happy so that I can make fans happy as well.”
Moonbin’s death is a tragedy, and it reminds us all that suicide is a serious issue that affects many people, including those in the K-pop industry in South Korea. If you or someone you know is struggling, there is help available. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the appropriate resources for support.
The death of Moonbin has left a deep void in the hearts of K-pop fans around the world. His talent and passion for music will continue to inspire generations of artists to come. As we mourn his untimely passing, let us also remember the joy and energy he brought to the stage, and keep his memory alive through his music. Rest in peace Moonbin, you will be dearly missed.
